Specialised firefighting tanker aircraft based in Toowoomba have been unable to begin operations because of delays in obtaining certification from the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA). The aircraft are designed to deliver large volumes of fire retardant and water to support crews battling bushfires across Queensland and other parts of Australia. However, operators say regulatory approvals have taken longer than expected, preventing the tankers from being deployed ahead of the upcoming fire season. Industry representatives and local officials warn that the grounding could reduce Australia’s aerial firefighting capacity at a time when emergency agencies are preparing for increasingly severe bushfire conditions. The aircraft are intended to strengthen rapid-response capabilities and provide vital support in remote and difficult terrain. Operators are urging CASA to complete the certification process as soon as possible so the tankers can become operational and help protect communities during future fire emergencies.